The relationship of commitment to father role-identity and role performance

The involvement of fathers in home activities was examined using role-identity theory. Various types of commitment were identified. Focus was on cathectic commitment, the man's level of emotional and mental strength toward the father role-identity, and its relationship to father role performance. The father role-identity was divided into six components (discipliner, educator, provider, nurturer, caregiver and playmate). Special emphasis was placed on the corresponding dimensions of father role performance.

A purposive sample of 213 fathers of preschool age children was collected from churches and child care centers in a southeastern city. Cathectic commitment and role performance instruments were developed using modifications of existing measures. Besides descriptive statistics, analysis included correlations, ANOVA, and ANCOVA. Hypothesized relationships between each of the father role-identity components and dimensions were generally supported. Additional analysis was conducted with interaction terms, controls and other possible determinants.

Many fathers perceive themselves as providers. The "new" nurturant father, popularized in the media, also was a common perception. Most fathers engaged in traditional role performances in the home.

The distinct conceptualization of commitment types in research was suggested. The dividing of the father role- identity and role performance into components and dimensions was recommended.